Sleep apnea and sexual function

In yesterday’s e-Alert (“While You Were Sleeping” 8/13/02) I told you about sleep apnea and how it can create a high risk of cardiovascular disease. But that’s not all.

A new study from Haifa, Israel, shows that males who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), produce lower levels of testosterone during the night, resulting in decreased libido and sexual activity. And while this problem isn’t quite as serious as a cardiovascular problem, it can have a profound impact on your marriage and quality of life.

In addition to a drop in sexual function, low testosterone levels may result in a lack of energy, a decrease in strength and endurance, and can often be the cause of depression. And of course all of these problems are further complicated by the fatigue associated with obstructive sleep apnea.

Certainly the risk of cardiovascular disease alone is enough of a reason to take sleep apnea seriously and seek medical attention. But men who snore with chronic frequency may have more at stake than their heart health or a sleep-deprived wife.

To Your Good Health,

Jenny Thompson
Health Sciences Institute